Uber Sets Sights On Diversification. Is the Ride-hailing Titan Poised To Become The Ultimate Taskmaster Of Future?

In a bid to broaden its horizons beyond rides and deliveries, Uber Technologies, Inc. UBER is developing a service akin to TaskRabbit, Inc to help app users engage individuals to conduct various tasks, according to Bloomberg.

The potential new feature, "Chore," was unearthed within Uber's iPhone application amidst concealed code segments by developer Steve Moser. 

The code is still likely in the initial development phase and doesn't provide illustrations of possible chores. 

Although Uber frequently trials new features in specific regions, the company isn't actively testing this service.

Also Read: Touchdown For Uber: Inside The Four-Year Delivery Deal With The NFL

Uber: Future's Taskmaster?

According to the code, a "tasker" can be engaged for at least an hour, Bloomberg reported. 

Users will be prompted to detail the task required, its expected duration and the desired arrival time of the helper.

Under the new feature, a user will be asked to select the address, review their request, and then press a button to order it. 

In regards to the pricing of the feature, the app will determine the cost based on the time required to complete the assignment, according to Bloomberg.

Rival platforms like TaskRabbit Inc. and Angi Inc. already offer services ranging from TV mounting and appliance fixes to cleaning, moving and furniture setup.

While there's no certainty that Uber will roll out this service or provide a timeline, the development work suggests the company is contemplating this direction. 

Also Read: Uber Launches Electric Bike Fleet In Kenya

Is Uber Trying To Diversify Portfolio?

Venturing into the tasking domain would mark a substantial growth avenue for Uber, which posted a 14% year-on-year to $9.23 billion in the second quarter, slightly missing the Street view. 

The company saw its slowest growth rate since the first quarter of 2021, Bloomberg notes. 

Uber is on the hunt for fresh growth avenues to magnify its revenue streams. Last year, the company experimented with a distinct service named "Errands," catering to tasks such as flower delivery or returning online purchases.

Uber Eats is also preparing to roll out an AI-powered chatbot that will help users decide what to eat for their next meal. 

UBER Price Action: Uber closed Friday higher by 2.1% to $47.24. After-hours trading had shares up 0.08% at $47.28. 

Photo: Shutterstock